All Nauti Lass artworks are made using ethical products.
As an artist using seashells from around the world, I am very concerned about potential environmental damage and have always been very aware of the poverty in some of the countries I purchase shells from. When I started creating my works, I made a conscious decision to ensure that my suppliers are not only of the highest quality but ethical and put back into the local communities where my goods are made.
One of the most common questions I am asked at The Nauti Lass is
"Where do you get your shells?"
Living
close to the beach on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland,
I am fortunate enough to be able beachcomb on a variety of beaches within an
easy drive from home.
I have been issued with a collecting permit by the Queensland Department Of
Primary Industries and Fisheries with strict limits on the species,
size, and numbers of the shells I am able to collect.
I only ever pick up dead shells from the high tide line and will NEVER dive for
shells or take live shells from rocks or out of their environment.
To maintain the rich variety of shells that is used in my artwork, I also buy
shells from a variety of ethical shell suppliers around Australia and around the world.
All
of the seahorses in my artwork are bred at a seahorse farm, where
they are cultivated for the aquarium trade.
Since they are a creature that have quite a high mortality rate as they grow, some
are then dried and sent to me.
Many other shells and starfish are today cultivated in countries such as the Philippines.
The Hysan Foundation, a charity organisation has set up a variety of seashell farms to give disadvantaged people in the Philippines the opportunity to have an income.
It has also implemented a plan to build hospitals, schools, low cost housing and sanitation facilities. 16 schools have been established with over 1000 children having the opportunity to attend.
This program not only gives us the chance to help in a small way but to use a product is environmentally sustainable and ensures that seashells will be on the beaches for our children and grandchildren to enjoy.
As with all my work, the colours (or lack of) are all natural. I use no dye, paint or bleach in any of my artworks.The shells, twine and driftwood have all been treated so they will not fade or rot.
If you are interested in any of my mobiles or shadow boxes, drop me an email at jackie@thenautilass.com.au, check out the website, or drop in to our stall at Eumundi Markets on a Wednesday or Saturday, or Southbank Markets in Brisbane on a Sunday.
